Cloud-Based Distributed Data Storage System Using Block-Level Deduplication Based on Backup Frequencies of Incoming Backup Copies

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the first data block is part of a backup copy addressed to the distributed data storage system, and wherein the backup copy is generated in one of: within the first cloud computing environment, and outside the first cloud computing environment.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the expiry timeframe for the first unique system-wide identifier is further based on a maximum value of (i) the full backup frequency configured for the first user virtual disk and (ii) one or more full backup frequencies corresponding to one or more other user virtual disks referencing the first unique system-wide identifier.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the expiry timeframe is further based on a maximum value of (i) the full backup frequency configured for the first user virtual disk and (ii) one or more full backup frequencies corresponding to one or more other user virtual disks referencing second data blocks having a same hash value as the first data block.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the assigning of the expiry timeframe occurs during an input-output cycle of the first data block, which is distinct from the discard cycle.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein the first data block is part of a backup copy addressed to the distributed data storage system, and wherein the backup copy is generated in one of: within the first cloud computing environment, and outside the first cloud computing environment.